Chapter 370: The Academy Entrance Ceremony
The Ninja Academy's largest playground was already bustling with children. Under their Sensei's guidance, they arranged themselves into neat, square formations. Parents stood outside the barrier, watching intently. Among them were Orochimaru and others, blending in with the crowd, appearing like any other parents.
At the forefront of the square formations stood a raised platform where the school leaders, led by Kawakaze, were seated. Once everyone was settled, Ei Onoda rose from his seat and stepped to the front of the stage.
"Hello everyone, I am Ei Onoda, Vice Principal of the Konoha Ninja Academy." His powerful voice resonated across the playground, marking the official start of the opening ceremony.
"Today, first of all, I would like to welcome all of you to our Academy," he continued. "I would also like to thank all of your parents for attending and witnessing this important moment."
...
Ei Onoda spoke eloquently for over ten minutes, his enthusiasm evident in every word. He seemed almost reluctant to stop; had the script been longer, he might have kept going.
"Next, I would like to invite the student representative to say a few words," he announced, his voice filled with energy. "Everyone, please applaud."
Leading by example, Ei Onoda clapped enthusiastically before slowly returning to his seat.
Not far from the stage, Kakashi and Kurenai stood together. Kurenai had joined Kakashi and the others while the adults were chatting.
"Do your best," she whispered in encouragement, but the response came in a distinctly male voice.
"I'm impressed too," it said.